Standerton Chronicle

11/07/2025

🗞️ STANDERTON CHRONICLE ISSUE 251 IS OUT NOW!

📅 11 July 2025

🔥 This week’s issue is bursting with the stories that matter most to YOU! From victory on the sports field to vital community updates, we’ve got it covered:
✅ Standerton Sables on fire! — The Highveld Mayors League champs head into the semi-final this weekend. Don’t miss the lineup, coaches’ insight, and what’s at stake!
✅ Spotlight on Chriszelda Isaacs — A young Standerton mother faces the fight of her life as she races against time for urgent surgery.
✅ Judo champions rise! Our local Judokas shine on the tatami at the South African Championships.
✅ Estate Fi****ms Alert: Important notice to families dealing with deceased estates: what you need to know, and how to comply with SAPS regulations.

Plus: upcoming events, and the voices of our people — raw, real, and resilient.

📰 Grab your copy of Issue 251 now!

📍 Available online: https://online.fliphtml5.com/almlj/dkbl/

Together, we tell the story of Standerton.

Issue 251, 11 July 2025

09/07/2025

Vrede Police Searching for Family of Woman, She Says She is From Standerton

On 9 July 2025, Police in Vrede are urgently appealing to the public to assist in locating the family of a woman who identified herself as Lindiwe Khumalo, allegedly from Extension 6, Sakhile in Standerton.

According to officers, Lindiwe was able to state her name and her place of origin, but further attempts to gather information have been unsuccessful. No missing person report matching her description has yet been received.

"We are asking anyone who may know Lindiwe Khumalo or her family to please come forward. We must reunite her with her loved ones as soon as possible."

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Vrede SAPS on 058 913 8512 or visit the station in person.

The community is encouraged to share this message widely, especially in Sakhile and the surrounding areas of Standerton, hoping to locate her family quickly and safely.

09/07/2025

Department of Home Affairs Extends Operating Hours to Assist Learners During School Holidays

On 7 July 2025, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has announced the extension of its operating hours across the country from Monday, 7 July to Sunday, 21 July 2025, to better accommodate learners and other citizens during the school holidays.

During this two-week period, Home Affairs offices will operate for an additional two hours on weekdays, closing at 18:00 instead of the usual 16:00. The move is aimed at ensuring that learners have ample time to apply for or collect their Smart ID Cards, especially ahead of the third academic term.

To improve efficiency and reduce waiting times, the department has introduced dedicated collection counters at larger offices that process Smart IDs and passports—where space allows. This is expected to ease congestion and allow for a smoother experience for both applicants and those collecting documents.

Clients are encouraged to book appointments for applications or collections using the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS), which can be accessed via the DHA website at www.dha.gov.za or directly through this link: https://services.dha.gov.za/ #/authenticate/identity.

However, those who are unable to book online are still welcome to walk in without an appointment, a gesture that aims to accommodate everyone in need of vital identification services.

Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, urged citizens to use this opportunity, especially those who have been waiting for weeks to collect their documents.

“I would like to encourage all clients who have applied for their identification documents and have been waiting for three weeks or more, to seize this opportunity by visiting their Home Affairs office to collect these critical documents at their convenience,” Dr Schreiber said.

This extension comes at a crucial time, allowing learners to complete important identification tasks without disrupting their academic responsibilities, and giving the broader public better access to Home Affairs services during the holiday period.

06/07/2025

Spike in Hijackings Reported on Major Highways: Alberton SAPS Issues Urgent Warning to Public

Residents of Standerton be aware if you need to travel these roads!

Alrode, Alberton – A disturbing surge in hijackings in and around Alrode and on surrounding major routes has prompted the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Alberton to issue an urgent safety alert to all residents and motorists.

According to Warrant Officer Mongalo, Acting Visible Policing (Vispol) Commander of Alberton SAPS, hijackers are increasingly using calculated and manipulative tactics to target unsuspecting drivers on key routes such as the N3, N12, N17, and R59.

“This is not business as usual. We are dealing with repeat, organised criminal behaviour,” W/O Mongalo stated.
“Motorists need to be extra vigilant, and we call on the public to assist us by sharing these patterns widely.”

Hijacking Tactics to Be Aware Of:
🚗 Scenario 1: Fake Breakdown Alert
The hijackers overtake the victim’s vehicle and signal that something is wrong with their car. When the driver stops to check, they are ambushed and hijacked.
🚧 Scenario 2: Traffic Trap
A suspicious vehicle overtakes and then abruptly swerves into the victim’s lane, forcing traffic to a halt. The sudden stop creates an opening for the suspects to hijack the vehicle.
🧍 Scenario 3: The Hitchhiker Set-Up
In this deceptive ploy, drivers pick up a hitchhiker for cash. Unbeknownst to them, the hitchhiker communicates with accomplices via WhatsApp. As the vehicle nears a remote location, often under a bridge, the hitchhiker asks to be dropped off. Suddenly, a group of armed men emerges from the nearby bush and hijacks the driver.

SAPS Appeals for Public Cooperation
The SAPS urges all transport companies, drivers, and private vehicle owners to remain on high alert and avoid stopping in isolated areas or accepting lifts from or to strangers. Employers are asked to urgently brief their drivers and staff about these scenarios.

“Please take this warning seriously and ensure it reaches every driver and fleet operator in the area. Prevention starts with awareness,” W/O Mongalo stressed.

Anyone with information on suspicious activity or targeted by similar hijacking attempts is encouraged to report to Alberton SAPS immediately.

To report a crime or suspicious behaviour, contact Alberton SAPS at 011 861 6800 or your nearest police station.
Together, let’s stop these criminals before more lives are put at risk.

06/07/2025

Stolen Vehicle Recovered and Suspect Arrested in Sakhile

On 5 July, the swift response from Kasselman Security led to the recovery of a stolen vehicle and the arrest of a suspect in Sakhile

According to Jandré Kasselman of Kasselman Security, the incident unfolded just after 18:00 when a Volkswagen Citi Golf was reported stolen in Sakhile.

The vehicle was quickly tracked to an address in Sakhile.

Kasselman Security responded promptly, and within the hour the vehicle was recovered.

One suspect was arrested on the scene.

Sakhile SAPS arrived shortly thereafter and took over the investigation. The suspect remains in custody and will face charges relating to the theft of a motor vehicle.

This incident marks yet another successful collaboration between Kasselman Security and Sakhile SAPS, demonstrating the effectiveness of private-public partnerships in combating crime in the Lekwa area.

05/07/2025

Attempted Cable Theft Foiled by Kasselman Security Officer

Standerton - On 5 July 2025, an attempted cable theft was swiftly thwarted in the early hours thanks to the vigilance of a Kasselman Security Reaction Officer.

While patrolling near the corner of Burger and Caledon Streets in Standerton, the officer spotted suspicious activity.

Several suspects were seen fleeing towards the river park area, prompting an immediate investigation.

Upon closer inspection, the officer discovered an open manhole at the scene. It was evident that an attempt had been made to cut underground cables.

Fortunately, no cables were stolen, and the suspects had left their tools behind in their haste to escape.

Kasselman Security has once again demonstrated their dedication to protecting public infrastructure and keeping criminal activity at bay. Local authorities were alerted, and the tools were handed over as evidence.

Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious behaviour to SAPS or Kasselman Security immediately.

The swift action of the officer helped prevent potential disruptions to essential services, and the matter is currently under further investigation.

04/07/2025

🔥 Hot off the press: Issue 250 is here! 🔥

Don’t miss our 4 July 2025 edition, packed with stories that matter, moments that inspire, and people who make a difference.

Catch up on everything local!
https://online.fliphtml5.com/almlj/yclh/

Issue 250, 4 July 2025

02/07/2025

Tragic Hit-and-Run on R23: Victim Dies, Suspects Traced After Joint Effort

Standerton – 29 June 2025, a tragic hit-and-run incident claimed the life of a civilian along the R23 between Standerton and Volksrust.

At approximately 18:30, a Shabangu Security response vehicle was en route to drop off a security officer at a nearby farm when the team came across a shocking discovery, an individual lying motionless on the emergency lane of the road.

After stopping to assess the situation, the response team engaged nearby witnesses, who confirmed that the person had been struck by a white Isuzu bakkie that fled the scene without stopping to assist. Tragically, the victim was declared dead at the scene.

Shabangu Security immediately contacted the relevant authorities to report the incident. This led to a swift and coordinated response between Shabangu personnel and SAPS, who acted on information to trace and locate the suspect linked to the hit-and-run.

A joint operation was promptly launched to ensure that those responsible for the fatal incident were brought to justice.

29/06/2025

Breakthrough as Police Arrest Four Suspects in Buhlebenkosi Makhanda Murder Case

Standerton – The brutal murder of 20-year-old Buhlebenkosi Makhanda has gripped the town of Standerton, with police now confirming a major breakthrough in the case.

Four suspects have been arrested in connection with her killing, amid rising community calls for justice and an end to gender-based violence (GBV).

According to a statement by Captain Braam Roberts, spokesperson for Standerton SAPS, four local suspects will appear in the Standerton Magistrate’s Court on 30 June 2025.

They face charges of murder, attempted murder, and r**e relating to Buhle’s case, and are also charged in a second case of carjacking and kidnapping.

"A team from the local Detective Branch, led by Sergeant Mbele, gathered crucial information that led to the arrest of the four suspects at their hiding place," Captain Roberts confirmed.

"Evidence linking them to the first case was found in their possession."

In the second case, the complainant reportedly recognised one of the suspects by name, and a vehicle connected to the incident was also recovered in their possession.

Captain Roberts added that further charges may be added in the coming week as investigations continue.

Buhle was last seen alive on 31 May 2025, walking with a male friend when they were ambushed by armed men.

The suspects robbed them of their mobile phones and held them at gunpoint. Her friend was released, but Buhle was taken.

Her body was discovered on, 1 June, the next day near a graveyard, half-naked, with multiple gunshot wounds. Police suspect she was also sexually assaulted.

Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, condemned the crime and promised that no effort would be spared in bringing those responsible to justice.

On 3 June, the community gathered for a candlelight prayer walk to honour Buhlebenkosi. Dressed in black and white, residents marched from the Sakhile municipal offices to the hostels, candles in hand, chanting for justice.

“This walk was a way for us to mourn, to heal, and to demand answers.”
“Buhle’s name must never be forgotten.”

Joining the walk was the Lekwa Community Forum, whose spokesperson, Cllr. Selloo Tsotetsi, released a powerful media statement condemning GBV in all its forms.

“Gender-Based Violence is not a private matter, it is a national crisis that must be addressed urgently. We call on all sectors, government, civil society, media, and communities, to act now.”
The Forum called for:
• Stronger laws and swift justice
• Accessible support for survivors
• Accountability for perpetrators

With four suspects now in custody, the community of Standerton cautiously hopes for justice, but also knows that this is just one case in a much larger crisis.

As candles continue to burn for Buhlebenkosi Makhanda, the town sends a clear message:
We will not be silent. We will not forget.

28/06/2025

Concern Grows Over Missing Sakhile Teen, Karabo Makhoba

❗️UPDATE 29 JUNE 2025: THE FAMILY CONFIRMED THAT KARABO WAS FOUND SAFE.❗️

The family of Karabo Makhoba, a young resident of Ema9 in Sakhile, is pleading with the community and authorities for help in finding him after he disappeared without a trace earlier this month.

According to his family, Karabo was last seen on Monday, 23 June 2025, at around 16:30. Since then, his whereabouts remain unknown. His disappearance was reported at the Sakhile Police Station.

“We reported him missing, but all we were told is that kids these days go to initiation schools without informing their families,” a distressed relative said. “We were not given any confirmation, and that is not enough for us as parents. We need to know if our child is safe.”

The family strongly emphasised that Karabo did not leave with their permission, and if he did go to initiation school, it was without their knowledge or consent. This has left them torn between hope and despair.

They are now reaching out to the public for any information that may lead to Karabo’s location. Community members, neighbours, or anyone who might have seen him or knows his whereabouts are urged to come forward.

Karabo’s loved ones are appealing for empathy and swift action, hoping that someone will break the silence and bring them closer to answers.

If you have seen Karabo Makhoba or have any information, please contact Zanele Mkhize at 068 738 1904 or Zipho Makhoba 063 958 9364 or report it directly to Sakhile Police Station.

“We just want to know if our child is safe,” the family pleaded.

27/06/2025

🚨🔥 IT’S HERE! THE BIGGEST EDITION OF THE YEAR! 🔥🚨

Issue 249 – The VAL BOEREDAG EDITION has officially landed, and it’s BIGGER, BOLDER, than ever before! 🇿🇦🌾💥

🗓 Val Boeredag – 2 July 2025 – and we’ve packed everything you need to know (and more!) into this power-packed edition.

📍 Available now - read it online right here on our page!

👒🐄💪 Val Boeredag 2025 – Don’t miss the edition everyone’s talking about!

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Issue 249, 27 June 2025

26/06/2025

CARDS FOUND AT KFC TRAFFIC LIGHT — OWNER URGED TO CLAIM

Standerton - Several cards, believed to be personal and banking-related, were discovered near the traffic light at the KFC intersection earlier this week.

A concerned resident, who found the cards while passing by, has since kept them safe and is appealing to the rightful owner to come forward.

Members of the community who may have lost cards in that area are encouraged to contact 078 950 8748 to identify and collect their property.

Let’s help reunite the owner with their belongings — and a heartfelt thank you goes out to the honest citizen who chose to do the right thing.